Train Engine

Manufacturer / Maker Modern Toys Tokyo, Japan, founded 1724

Dateca. 1950

Mediumplastic, lithographed tin

Dimensions5 5/8 × 4 × 14 in. (14.3 × 10.2 × 35.6 cm)

ClassificationsRecreational Objects

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift courtesy Lyle Ramsey

Object numberPC2006.34.6

DescriptionThis mid-twentieth century toy train engine features a dark blue-green train with numerous intricate, painted-on details in red and gold. The front of the train showcases a red bumper and various painted-on details on the flat portion of the cylindrical surface. Each side of the train includes three main red wheels with silver borders and pistons. The middle portion of the train includes detailing likely meant to mimic real train mechanics. The back portion of the train includes a cab where a pilot is pictured amongst numerous painted-on windows. The exterior of this rear-cab car also encompasses small, painted-on gold dots, and the word "Western" written in serifed, old-Western black lettering against a red rectangle bordered with a gold outlining. Characterizing the post-World War II modernization of the mid-twentieth century, this toy plays a role in symbolizing progression within industrial innovation and exploration.

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